1:48 F-35B Lightning II - exhaust nozzle (Short takeoff)

The real subject

The F-35B Lightning II is the version intended for short takeoff and vertical landing. You recognize it from the other versions by the lift fan behind the cockpit and above all by the rear exhaust nozzle, which is able to swivel down from the horizontal position. In a short takeoff the nozzle points at an angle toward the ground, the fan behind the cockpit pushes air downward ahead of the center of gravity and the aircraft lifts off after a substantially shorter run than an ordinary fighter needs. The swiveled nozzle meanwhile reveals the detailing that is hidden in the horizontal position, and that is exactly why it draws the eye so much on a model.

What the set offers

A replacement exhaust nozzle modeled in the swiveled position for a short takeoff, that is in the form the aircraft has on the deck of a ship or on a short runway. It replaces the kit part, which tends to be simplified because of the mold and stands up less well to a view from behind.

• The exhaust nozzle of the F-35B Lightning II in 1:48 scale
• The position corresponds to a short takeoff, that is swiveled down
• A replacement for the simplified kit part
• Suitable for a model on a short runway or on the deck of a ship

Building and painting tips

Cut off the excess material with a sharp blade a little away from the part and sand the remainder, so that the mating surface stays flat. Wash and degrease the part before painting. The swiveled position changes the whole rear end of the aircraft, so try the fit dry before gluing. The nozzle is the most thermally stressed place on the airframe: it pays to start from a metallic shade, to add fine sooting toward the trailing edge and to keep the color transitions rather restrained.

Who it is for

For modelers who are building the F-35B in action and want the nozzle in the right position. The model, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.